asked the Minister for Social Welfare why a constituent referred to in a reply of 11th June, 1963 (name and address supplied) was not regarded as entitled to disability benefit before 28th May, 1963, and treated as such, when it had been admitted by his Department that seven stamps, which should have been affixed to his card by a previous employer, and which would have placed him in benefit, were not so affixed; and what is the position in the matter.
Written Answer. - Disability Benefit Claimant.
31.
The last claim for disability benefit made by the insured person concerned prior to 28th May, 1963, was for the period from the 3rd January, 1961 to the 16th January, 1962. He was paid at the maximum rate appropriate to a single man without dependants up to 3rd June, 1961, the end of the 1960-61 benefit year. Owing to deficiency of contributions in the year 1960 his rate of benefit was reduced by 5/- a week in the 1961-62 benefit year which commenced on the 5th June, 1961. Even if the seven contributions due by a former employer had been paid in time, the insured person would not have qualified for the maximum rate of disability benefit but would have been entitled to an extra 2/6 a week from 5th June, 1961 to the 16th January, 1962. He now has a claim against the employer for the sum of £4 0s. 10d. which is the amount of benefit lost by him owing to the failure to pay these contributions in time.